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The last thing you want when enjoying a relaxing afternoon out on the water is to find that your boat isn’t working properly. There are several potential issues that could require professional boat repairs, especially if you don’t maintain your vessel properly. Here are some of the most common issues that come up for boat owners, along with suggestions for avoiding them.

3 Tips for Avoiding Major Boat Repairs

1. Overheating Engine

An overheating boat engine can be caused by several factors, but the most common is a clogged water intake. Seaweed, mud, or a plastic bag can all prevent water from getting in to cool the engine. This might result in boat impeller failure, so schedule regular service and inspections to catch these small clogs before getting out on open water.

2. Transmission Failure

boat repairIf the shifter doesn’t engage the transmission, it could be due to a lack of fluid or gear oil. Your mechanic can check for any other potential issues, such as a detached cable or internal corrosion, just to be sure. To avoid this issue, keep your gear oil and transmission levels topped off.

3. Failing Ignition

If your boat does not start, it could be due to a problem with the ignition. If you’ve already checked the simple solutions like the key switched or tripped breaker, the issue is likely corrosion near the battery. Clean the battery terminal and inspect the wires. If you notice any signs of corrosion on the wiring, bring it in for an inspection to have these parts replaced.

 

If you need boat repair services, contact Petzold’s Marine Center in Portland, CT. The marine mechanic and boat storage center can help you solve the most common electrical issues that plague boaters. The center even includes new and pre-owned boats for sale and has been serving the community since 1945. Call (860) 342-1196 for Portland, (203) 838-4523 for Norwalk, CT, or (401) 846-8484 to reach their location in Wakefield, RI. Visit the team online to learn more about their marine technical services.

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